Boswellia, also known as Indian frankincense, is an extract from the Boswellia serrata tree that is found in parts of Asia and Africa. It is a herbal remedy that is often used in Ayurveda, one of the oldest alternative health practices in the world. Boswellia is rich in boswellic acids that are thought to have anti-inflammatory effects. The herbal extract is made with the Boswellia resin from inside the tree, which contains boswellic acid.
What are some health benefits of Boswellia?
1. Decrease inflammation – Boswellia has shown some anti-inflammatory properties and is used in the treatment of inflammatory conditions, wound healing, and bacterial infections.
2. Osteoarthritis pain – Boswellia was found to relieve pain associated with osteoarthritis while also improving function in affected joints. A meta-analysis studied the effect of Boswellia on osteoarthritis. From these participants, researchers were able to conclude that Boswellia could be both effective and safe in treating osteoarthritis.
3. Asthma – Boswellia is thought to suppress inflammation that is present in asthma, opening up a path for normal breathing. In a study, participants with mild to severe asthma who used an asthma inhaler plus an oral formulation of Boswellia extract needed to use their inhalers about half as often as those who did not take the supplement.
4. Inflammatory bowel disease – It has been suggested that Boswellia could improve symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). One clinical study found the gum resin from the Boswellia serrata tree to be an effective treatment option for chronic colitis, a type of IBD. The anti-inflammatory effects of Boswellia have led some researchers to suggest that chewing Boswellia gum could reduce mild lung symptoms of COVID-19.
5. Reduce risk for autoimmune diseases – Boswellia may have immunostimulant properties (at high doses). This may affect the control of autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and others.
How do you use Boswellia?
Dosage: There is no standard recommended dose of Boswellia. Many Boswellia products and supplements are made differently, making dosage standardization a challenge. A recommended dose of Boswellia is 250 to 500 milligrams, two to three times per day. • Osteoarthritis - 100 to 250 milligrams for four weeks • Chronic colitis - 900 milligrams per day divided into three daily doses over six weeks.
What are the side effects of Boswellia?
Boswellia is generally safe and well tolerated when used orally although some side effects have been reported like diarrhea or constipation, nausea, abdominal pain, and heartburn.
Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The contents of this website are based upon the views of Dr. Walker and his experience. This product is not intended as medical advice nor to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. The information is likewise not to replace the advice of a qualified health care provider. The information provided herein is intended as a sharing of general knowledge only and is not intended to be, nor is it, medical advice or a substitute for medical advice. That being said, please consult your healthcare provider before using supplements or providing supplements to children under the age of 18. If you have or suspect you have, a specific medical condition or disease, please consult your healthcare provider.
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